World's tallest woman from Turkey flies on plane for first time with Turkish Airlines

The tallest woman on the planet has finally taken her first-ever flight after the airline adapted one of its planes so she can fit into it.

Rumeysa Gelgi, 24, from Turkey flew with Turkish Airlines to San Francisco and six seats were removed, replacing them with a specially designed stretcher.

She was officially named the tallest woman alive by the Guinness World Records this year and she is 7ft 1inches in height.

Her huge stature is as a result of having a condition called Weaver syndrome – which among other things causes accelerated growth and means Rumeysa mainly gets around in a wheelchair.

Even as a child, Rumeysa was too tall to sit in regular airline seats.

When she landed in San Francisco, she posted: ‘A flawless journey from start to finish… this was my first plane ride, but it certainly won’t be my last… heartfelt thank you to each and every person who has been a part of my journey.’

She has travelled to San Francisco to pursue a career in software development and will co-ordinate with Guinness World Records to promote various events.

When she received her certificate, Rumeysa said: ‘Every disadvantage can be turned into an advantage for yourself so accept yourself for who you are, be aware of your potential and do your best.’

She was also named the tallest teenager alive in 2014, and since then has used her platform to advocate for others with rare conditions.

Craig Glenday, editor in chief at Guinness World Records, added: ‘It’s an honour to welcome Rumeysa back into the record books.

‘Her indomitable spirit and pride at standing out from the crowd is an inspiration.

‘The category of tallest living woman is not one that changes hands very often, so I’m excited to share this news with the world.’

The tallest man on Earth is Sultan Kosen, who measures 8ft 3inches.